Women Fare Worse Than Men Following Stroke

According to a study published in the journal Neurology, researchers found that women who survive strokes have a worse quality of life compared to men. The patients’ quality of life was measured at three months and again at one year after a stroke or TIA using a formula that assessed mobility, self-care, everyday activities, and depression/anxiety. Findings showed that women had a worse quality of life up to 12 months following a stroke, even after factoring in variables such as stroke severity and disability. The findings also showed that age, race, and marital status accounted for the biggest differences between men and women at three months, with marital status as the most important factor. The results of the study suggest further research is needed on mobility, pain, and discomfort in order to provide a clear understanding of how to improve the lives of women after stroke. To read more about this study, click here.